I think the way The Hobbit look has something to do with the 3D, but I remark, I am not an expert in cinema technology.

But the same happens with other movies: They look awesome in 3D, then I saw then in 2D in TV and they look a bit fake. Yes, I have notice those movies doesn´t look as great as when I saw them 3D in cinemas. (But Avatar) So I guess something of that happens with The Hobbit.

I don´t get the point about colors thought, I don´t see anything wrong with colors, or bright colors. The LOTR trilogy has color as well.

"Dear friend good bye, no tears in my eyes. So sad it ends, as it began"Queen